Ski Resorts

Disneyland Paris Travel Guide

The blueprints for the holiday destination of Disneyland may
have been developed in the United States, but the world's favourite
theme park concept has transported exceedingly successfully to
Europe. Situated 20 miles (32km) east of Paris, Disneyland Paris
(also known as EuroDisney) is a vast complex of hotels, restaurants
and shops together with the exciting theme park. Those in the know
have it that Europe's Disneyland is actually better than its US
counterparts, boasting more modern technology and existing in the
ambit of less control and different safety regulations. Then, too,
EuroDisney has also unavoidably picked up a European flavour which
adds charm and intimacy to the entire experience.

EuroDisney actually consists of two theme parks: the Disneyland
Park, based on California's iconic Magic Kingdom, boasts 53 awesome
attractions, drawing thousands of holidaymakers every year; the
Walt Disney Studios was built more recently and follows the trend
of the Disney MGM Studios in Florida, USA, using movie-like
settings for its thrill rides and experiences. Adults and children
alike become enchanted and enthralled as they explore fantasy
neighbourhoods bristling with Disney characters, and stop to take
in the spectacle of the day and night parades.

Most visitors come to EuroDisney on a package deal that includes
onsite hotel accommodation and passes to enjoy the shows and
attractions. At least two days are required to make the most of the
Disney magic, and there will still be plenty left for a second
visit!

Holidaymakers should make sure they take plenty of spare cash to
Disneyland Paris if shopping is their passion, because besides
offering thrilling entertainment, the resort also offers one of the
largest, glitziest shopping centres in Europe, in the form of the
Val d'Europ. Shoppers will need to hop in a taxi, or ride one stop
on the train, to access this centre which consists of acres of
outlet stores, known as La Vallee, and a vast two-storey mall. Buy
anything from designer fashion to a toothbrush!

Apart from numerous restaurants in the Disneyland Paris hotels,
the holiday park offers dozens of eateries, from full-service
French restaurants, to hot-dog stands. The cuisine is mostly
fast-food family fare, but there are also plenty of quality
restaurants to tempt the palate and dent the pocket. The most
difficult aspect of dining in Disneyland is deciding on where and
what to eat, so vast is the choice.

Disneyland Paris is a pleasure resort of the first order,
designed to entertain, enchant and delight holidaymakers. Wander
down Main Street USA, take a steam train ride, hike over to
Frontierland and ride the thrilling Thunder Mountain, or rock and
roll on the Pirates of the Carribean ship. The thrills and spills
are endless. During the afternoon and evenings there are stunning
fantasy parades to watch, and the night sky is often jewelled with
fireworks displays. In addition various theatres and performance
venues offer live shows. Opening hours are usually from 9am to 10pm
in peak season, with opening and closing hours moved up an hour or
so during winter.